Michigan State football: 3 potential replacements for Mel Tucker
By Dante Pryor
On Monday, Michigan State Athletic Director Alan Haller informed head football coach Mel Tucker of his intention to terminate his contract with cause. Haller’s five-page letter cites “a body of undisputed evidence of misconduct that warrants termination.” The next day, Tucker responded to the allegations.
According to the embattled head coach, the allegations against him are false, and there are other motives at work. Michigan State firing him for cause means they avoid a $79 million buyout of what’s left on his contract. Since Tucker has been suspended without pay, Harlon Barnett has been taking over coaching duties for the program.
Who should replace Tucker?
Don’t count out current interim head coach Harlon Barnett. Getting down to brass tax, Barnett comes cheap. Whether they fire him for cause or settle on a number where they have to pay Tucker something, this will cost Michigan State something.
It might not be money. Having two sexual misconduct allegations against members of your athletic department in the last decade costs your reputation. That said, Michigan State can’t hire Urban Meyer and all his baggage. Prime isn’t coming, either.
They could go with the hot Power Five coordinator or a coach without stains on his reputation.